HOUSTON — The Coast Guard is searching for possible missing persons after a vessel caught fire and sank Monday afternoon approximately 3 miles south of the San Bernard River.

At 2:45 p.m., a good Samaritan reported sighting flames and smoke just south of the San Bernard River to Coast Guard Sector Houston-Galveston watchstanders.

A Coast Guard Air Station Houston MH-65 Dolphin helicopter aircrew and a Coast Guard Station Freeport response boatcrew were diverted to the location. Upon arrival, the 25-foot vessel was burned beyond identification and sank shortly after.

“Our number one priority is the preservation of human life,” said Lt. Mike Hart, chief duty officer at Sector Houston-Galveston. “We have several assets actively searching for any possible missing persons.”